NO GREE SERIES (IMPOSTER SYNDROME)

No Gree for Imposter Syndrome

Written by Miriam Onyemenam

Oh, you thought being in the sixth month of the year meant we’re now starting to gree? Never!

In case you have forgotten, our motto for 2024 is ‘‘No gree for anybody’ and today we’re here to tell you about another enemy of progress that you should not gree for.

Imposter Syndrome, the step-sibling of Procrastination, is a feeling of unworthiness despite achieving goals and accomplishments.

Simply put, Imposter Syndrome is self-doubt. It’s responsible for those underlying thoughts like “I don’t deserve this win” or “I’m not as talented as they think,” when in actuality, you are way more talented than you give yourself credit for.

The good news is: Imposter Syndrome, like any other productivity killer, can be overcome with some tips. And because TFS loves you, TFS will share them with you.

• Acknowledge it and accept that it\’s all in your head: This first step to overcoming Imposter Syndrome is shutting off that voice in your head telling you you’re a fraud. Because that’s all it is—a voice, not reality. Imposter Syndrome is like a sneaky agbero that wants to steal your phone in Lagos traffic. By acknowledging its presence, you’re automatically one step ahead. Never forget that those feelings of doubt don\’t reflect your true abilities. 

• Know that you are not alone: Feeling like an Imposter can be isolating, but remember, you\’re not alone. Imposter Syndrome plagues even the most successful people.  Think of your idolos, the artists, the actors, the award winners—they\’ve all likely battled self-doubt at some point. There\’s a whole community out there of people who\’ve wrestled with these feelings. Now beat your chest and ask yourself, “If they can overcome it, who am I not to?” 

• Let go of perfectionism: Perfectionism is a strong enemy of progress. If you\’re constantly chasing the impossible dream of being flawless, you\’ll always feel like a failure. Instead, embrace the idea that mistakes are a natural part of the learning process. They’re opportunities to grow and improve. Focus on making progress, no matter how small. Celebrate your strengths and accomplishments, and remember that even the most successful people aren\’t perfect.  Letting go of perfectionism frees you to be your best self and conquer your goals.

• Document your wins, big and small: Imposter Syndrome loves to whisper negativity in your ear, making you forget all you\’ve achieved.  Fight back by keeping a record of your wins, big or small. Did you eat that presentation up? Write it down. Did you finally complete that online course? Add it to the list. You didn’t skip any workout this week? Add that too. Whenever self-doubt creeps in, you can pull out your \”win\” list and remind yourself of how much of a champion you truly are. It\’s a powerful tool to silence the Imposter and celebrate your journey.

We hope that implementing these tips will help you abolish Imposter Syndrome and allow you to shine as brightly as you should.

Now, go ye into the world and doubt yourself no more!

If you are just finding out about TFS, TFS (The Family of Students) is a community of university students; we connect university students and bring the best out of their university experience.

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